STATE COLLEGE, Pa. (WTAJ) — The school year is fast approaching and Mount Nittany Health is reminding parents that school physicals will need to be scheduled.
According to the release, physical exams help identify any health concerns that may affect a child's ability to perform well in school. Additionally, Pennsylvania requires kindergarten, 6th-grade and 11th-grade students to be given a "comprehensive appraisal" of their health prior to their entrance to those grades.
"School physicals play a crucial role in monitoring and maintaining a child's overall health," Kristie Kaufman, MD, Mount Nittany Health Pediatrics, said. "During these exams, we assess the child's growth and development, check for any medical conditions, and ensure vaccinations are up to date."
Additionally, for students participating in school sports, physicals are required. The primary purpose of the sports physical is to evaluate the student's overall health and fitness level.